Australian Antarctic Division: Leading Australia’s Antarctic Program

Antarctica calling all artists

Screenwriter Jane Allen and author Jesse Blackadder in Antarctica as part of their Arts Fellowship (Photo: Jesse Blackadder)

Artists looking for the ultimate inspiration are encouraged to apply for the Australian Antarctic Arts Fellowship.

The Fellowship enables those from the creative community to experience Antarctica first-hand, and share this with the broader community through their chosen art form.

Director of the Australian Antarctic Division, Mr Kim Ellis said the Fellowship provides a rare opportunity for artists to be part of the Australian Antarctic Program.

“This is a window into another world, where artists are able to travel south with us, be immersed in the Antarctic environment and live as an expeditioner,” Mr Ellis said.

“Over the years we’ve taken painters, sound artists, dancers, musicians, composers and authors who have all developed their own response to the icy continent.”

The 2019/20 Arts Fellow will travel south on Australia’s icebreaker, Aurora Australis, on its final resupply voyage.

Applications that pay tribute to the ship’s 30 years of service as the backbone of the Australian Antarctic Program and main lifeline to Australia's Antarctic and sub-Antarctic research stations are encouraged.

“The vessel has a place in the hearts of all who have sailed south and for the many who have become used to its presence on the waterfront in Hobart,” said Mr Ellis.

The Director of the Australian Network for Art & Technology (ANAT), Vicki Sowry, said they will provide the successful Arts Fellow with financial support up to $5000.

“We see great synergy with the unique nature of the Fellowship and our work supporting art that pushes the boundaries and engages the public,” Vicki Sowry said.